Premier League: Is O'Neill untouchable at Sunderland?

Martin O'Neill has escaped major criticism despite poor results

Sunderland have won just one Premier League game in their last 17 attempts, yet no one seems to be questioning Martin O'Neill's tenure...

When the bouncy, self-proclaimed Sunderland fan took over at the Stadium of Light last December, his appointment promised the start of a bright and breezy new era. 

At first, the Northern Irishman's infectious positivity had the required effect, as the Black Cats woke themselves up from an apparently Steve Bruce-induced coma to win eight of their next 12 games in all competitions. 

However, stocks of O'Neill's magic dust soon ran low and after this dazzling start, the lights dimmed on Sunderland's season as they failed to win any of their last eight league games. 

Perhaps being a boyhood supporter of the club you manage can buy you a little extra time before the fans' dissenting voices start to be heard, but considering the circumstances, O'Neill appears to be getting off extremely lightly.

Last season's malaise has carried itself into this campaign, with only a solitary win from nine games, culminating in a hugely disappointing home defeat to former employers Aston Villa at the weekend. 

At this time last season, the unfortunate Bruce had actually garnered one more win than his successor yet less than a month later he was forced out of the door. 

It's not just the results which have fallen short of the mark for O'Neill though; it's the lacklustre style of football and absence of goals.

Sunderland have been largely dire to watch, only managing to muster a painful 10 goals from 12 games in all competitions.

In the Premier League in particular, they look so short of attacking ideas and cohesion. 

This is starkly highlighted by the fact Steven Fletcher is the only Sunderland player to have contributed to their league tally of six - netting five - with Demba Ba's own goal for Newcastle the only other registered strike. 

Yet staggeringly, O'Neill's name continues to evade those involved in the sack race debate. 

There is no respite for Sunderland either as the next two fixtures are away at teams with fantastic home records in Everton and Fulham. 

The Black Cats can be found at 8.07/1 to beat the Toffees at Goodison on Saturday.